bringing up the rear crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "bringing up the rear" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions and explanations to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "bringing up the rear crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LAST: Coming after all others in time or order; final.
6 Letters
BEHIND: In or to a position at the back of someone or something; remaining after.
7 Letters
LAGGING: To move or progress slowly, falling behind others in a group or race.
8 Letters
TRAILING: Following behind, especially in a race or competition; to be last.
More About "bringing up the rear crossword clue"
"Bringing up the rear" is a widely recognized English idiom. It literally means to be the last person or thing in a line or procession, or to be at the very back of a group moving forward. The phrase has military origins, referring to the detachment of soldiers whose duty it was to protect the rearguard of an army or column.
In a broader sense, the idiom is often used to describe someone or something that is progressing more slowly than others, or is in the last position in a competition or task. When encountered in a crossword, solvers should think of synonyms for 'following,' 'being last,' 'behind,' or 'lagging' that fit the required letter count.
Understanding the nuances of such idioms is crucial for crossword success. While the literal meaning points to physical position, the figurative use can extend to performance, status, or completion order, all of which are fair game for clever clue writers.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Core Meaning: For idiomatic clues like "bringing up the rear," distill the phrase down to its fundamental meaning (e.g., following, being last). This helps in brainstorming direct synonyms.
- Consider Word Lengths: Always check the number of letters provided for the answer. This is your most powerful filter, narrowing down possibilities significantly.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: The letters you've already filled in from other clues are invaluable. Use them to confirm potential answers or rule out others that don't fit.
- Think Beyond Literal Meanings: Crossword constructors love wordplay. Be open to answers that might be puns, homophones, or other forms of linguistic trickery related to the clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'bringing up the rear' mean in general?
'Bringing up the rear' is an idiom meaning to be at the very end of a group or procession, or to be the last to do something. It often implies a slower pace or being less advanced than others, literally or figuratively.
How do I approach crossword clues that are idioms or phrases like this one?
For idiomatic or phrase-based clues, break down the core meaning. 'Bringing up the rear' implies 'following,' 'being last,' or 'lagging.' Then, brainstorm synonyms for these core concepts that fit the letter count and the context of the puzzle. Consider looking for antonyms if the clue suggests it, or related concepts that fit the wordplay.
Why are there often multiple answers for one crossword clue?
Crossword clues can have multiple valid answers due to synonyms, multiple interpretations of a clue, or variations in common usage. While a specific puzzle will only have one correct answer for a given slot, a clue itself might evoke several possibilities. The intersecting letters from other solved clues are key to determining the intended answer for your specific puzzle.